Edgecam seamlessly integrates 4 and 5 axis

simultaneous machining within its milling and

mill/turn environment to allow a range of multi-

axis cutting strategies to be applied to the most

complex tooling or components.

: 4 & 5 axis machiningIntuitive, easy-to-use

graphical user interface

Ideal for the rotary machining of automotive and

aerospace components

Wide range of advanced options providing complete

control of the tool

5 axis modules include full machine simulation

to aid visualization of the machining process

Interactive machining simulation

5 Axismachining

Edgecam offers a wide range of 4 and 5 axis strategies applicable to solid and surface geometry. Edgecam has now made this easier to use with the operational style interface yet still have all the control required for the higher demands such as :

• SWARF cutting for machining of variable taper walls

• 5 axis finishing across multiple surfaces with control over lead/lag and side tilt angles 5 axis profile machining for slotting, de-flashing and trimming of sheet forms

• Full support for all common tool profiles, including lollipop cutters

• Easy-to-use machining strategies are geared to maximize productivity and quality

Introduction to 5 Axis is made easier with the 3 to 5 axis tool conversion and the peace of mind that the program is correct using the machine tool simulator.

Edgecam’s 4 axis strategies are ideal for the rotary machining of automotive and aerospace components such as camshafts, crankshafts and blades, as well as the production of rotary dies and components for the oil & gas industry.

4 and 5 axis simultaneous machining offer key advantages over conventional indexed 3-Axis machining:

• Reduced cycle time by machining complex components in a single setup. In addition, dimensional accuracy can be significantly improved through the elimination of positioning errors between setups

• Improved surface finish and extended tool life are achieved by orienting the tool to maintain optimum tool to-part contact at all times

• Improved access to undercuts and deep pockets - through tilting the tool or component allows shorter series tooling to be employed, eliminating the need for secondary setups

• Reduced fixturing, as the cutter can be presented to the component at any required angle

5 axis machining is now common place in all areas of manufacturing as

high technology machines have become more affordable along with design

demands requiring more complicated tool paths

Vero Software Limited45 Boulton RoadReadingBerkshireRG2 0NHUnited Kingdom

tel. +44 (0) 118 922 6633 email. info@edgecam.comweb. www.edgecam.com

5 Axismachining

3 to 5 axis Tool Path ConversionUsing the knowledge of 3 axis machining methods, the standard Edgecam milling cycles and operations can be used on a component then apply the 5 axis tool path conversion. This produce 5 axis movement where required, ensure tool lengths are kept to a minimum and the cutting tool and holder tilted away from the component avoiding any collision. This methodology is an easy way to move into 5 axis programming technology.

Turn MillingUse the 4th axis rotary attachment on the milling machine to produce a turned shaft using milling cutters rather than using a lathe for a partial operation. This process relies on the percentage engagement of the milling cutter while rotating the component which is made simple using Edgecam. The same principal is also used to produce cam forms.

Five Axis FinishingFive axis finishing across multiple faces is similar to a parallel lace or scanning tool path but controls the tilt relative the surface which is driving the cycle.

SWARF MillingSide Wall Axial Relief Feed. This is common practice when driving the side of the tool along a surface which tilts from side to side, this is in common practice on many aerospace parts. The tilt is control by the surface wall and the tool lift controlled by the base surface or bounding curve.

5 Axis CurveThe 5 axis curve option runs the tool once along a curve, with the tool axis parallel to the drive surface. This technique is very useful for de-flashing.

5 axis blend betweenAn ideal method for machining fillet surfaces where a cut needs to start parallel to one curve but finish parallel to another.

Advanced 4 & 5 axis MillingThe advanced 5 axis module provides total control of 4 and 5 axis tool paths using solids, surfaces or wireframe geometries. Advance 5 Axis has additional functionality beyond the standard 5 axis and is ideal for more complicated components such as blings, blisks and port machining where tool path plus entry and exit path control with is of a very high importance.

5 axis Positioning5 axis machines are also capable of 5 axis positioning, also called 3+2. This is where the component can be positioned using a combination of 3 axis linear movement with 2 axis rotary movement. A standard 3 Axis machining method can then be applied on to the component face orientated towards the spindle. These tool paths may also have the 3 to 5 axis conversion applied.

Tool Path control5 axis tool paths can result in large movements of the machine tool from what can be a very small cut on the component. These movements can cause severe damage the part and machine. Edgecam provides methods for collision avoidance where the cutter and holder are checked for collision and the necessary tilts applied to move away from the potential collision area.

Inverse Time Feed is control implemented to ensure the feed rate at the cutting tip is does not slow or dwell when small movements of the cutter produces a large movement of the machine tool. Inverse time feed allows a specified distance to move the tool during a specified time, this ensures the tool tip motion is correct and the machine tool movement will compensation to suit.